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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Secretary of State do?
The Secretary of State is California's chief elections official. He (or she) is responsible for certifying elections systems, gathering information from the state's 58 counties, and dealing with statewide and legislative candidates among other duties.

It is important to note that while the Secretary of State is responsible for state election responsibilities, each county has its own elections official either appointed by the Board of Supervisors or elected by the voters of the county. The local elections official does not take orders from the Secretary of State, but answers directly to the local voters and Board of Supervisors.

For more information about the Secretary of State, visit the official website.

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Office of Elections located?
2. How do I register to vote?
3. How can I vote using a vote-by-mail ballot?
4. What does the Secretary of State do?
5. How does a recall work?
6. Why am I in a mail-ballot precinct?
7. Why does my polling place move?